Bill would address vets' info security

June 28, 2012

U.S. Rep. Joe Donnelly is sponsoring legislation that would ensure veterans are notified more quickly if the Department of Veterans Affairs has a data breach.

The bill would require the department to tell veterans within 10 business days, or 15 days in special circumstances, when there has been a breach of sensitive personal information. Currently, the VA's internal policy allows 30 days to notify people affected by a data breach.

"In the unfortunate event of a breach of sensitive information, veterans and their families should be notified as soon as practically possible," Donnelly, D-Granger, said in a statement. "I'm pleased that others support this common-sense change, including the American Legion and VetsFirst."

The House Committee on Veterans Affairs Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee approved the bill Wednesday.